Islamabad – May 21, 2025: Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Syed Asim Munir, has become only the second person in its history to attain this prestigious five-star designation. On May 20, 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved this promotion under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif due to Munir’s exceptional leadership during recent military operations – for which M.A Zone Testing Service, The Express Tribune, Wikipedia and Reuters all reported positively regarding his appointment.
Munir’s promotion comes on the heels of Pakistan’s military response to India’s Operation Sindoor, during which his strategic acumen was widely credited with protecting national security. Prime Minister Sharif lauded Munir for “exemplary leadership” that had brought “great honour” to their motherland. India Today (@IndiaToday), The Times of India and @EconomicTimes all lauded Munir as having saved national security.
General Munir was appointed Chief of Army Staff (COAS) in November 2022; due to a parliamentary amendment in 2023, his tenure has been extended from three to five years despite its ceremonial nature as Field Marshal rank – although he will continue serving as army chief.
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Reuters +8 @EconomicTimes are some sources reporting this news.
Munir was only ever the second Pakistani ever to hold this honor since General Ayub Khan in 1965; Munir’s promotion marked a marked departure from history as it was conferred through civilian government rather than through presidential presidential appointments during Ayub’s presidency. ThePrint, AP News and Reuters each reported this development as well.
Munir has enjoyed an almost four decade-long military career in which he held key posts such as Director-General of Military Intelligence and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Additionally, he gained distinction for becoming the first Pakistani army chief to memorize the entire Qur’an. Reuters + 4 Its Wikipedia +4
Times of India.
Promotion has caused mixed responses both domestically and internationally. Government officials and military personnel have generally welcomed it; while analysts and social media users have raised questions over its timing and implications, particularly given recent military engagements with India.
Field Marshal Munir responded to his promotion with pride. “This honor belongs not only to myself but the entire armed forces of Pakistan and nation-at-large,” and dedicated it to those who have made such sacrifices on behalf of Pakistan and are still serving with distinction today. Reuters
Wikipedia Munir’s promotion as Field Marshal indicates Pakistan’s trust in his leadership amid shifting regional dynamics.
This development marks a turning point in Pakistani military history, reflecting both its challenges and decisions taken to navigate regional tensions by its leadership.